Asian bronze-medallist Amit Phangal (49kg) gave India's campaign a fine start at the 19th World Boxing Championship, advancing to the pre-quarterfinals, here today.
Amit defeated Italy's Federico Serra in a split verdict to enter the second round, where he will be up against seventh seed Carlos Quipo of Ecuador.
ADVERTISEMENTREMOVE AD
The Indian was sluggish in the opening round, allowing his rival easy shots. However, he managed to get his act together in the second and third round to seal the issue in his favour, albeit on a split decision.
Eight Indian boxers are in fray in the premier event, which has close to 250 boxers vying for the top honours.